Finning technique advice

[ESharp]

Hi

Recently I bought a pair of Scubapro Twin Jet Max fins because I needed a fin with a generous foot pocket to fit my external rock boots. I have tried a friends pair in my everdry 4 drysuit and liked the feel of them but I am curious as to what the best way to kick them is. I am aware that frog kicking is sub optimal in this type of fin and they are better suited to flutter kicking but should this be a small flutter kick or a larger one considering they are quite stiff. Sorry if its not very clear what I am asking I am still quite new to diving.

Any help would be much appreciated apologies if I have posted this in the wrong place.

 

[Peter_C]

I started in a set of Twin Jets and made it about 20 dives before ditching them, instead switching to a paddle fin (Of which the foot pockets can be HUGE!). My favorite way of swimming without gear has always been Breast Stroke, so frog kicking while diving for me made the most sense. Frogging is also the most relaxing kick since it is a pulse and glide, not a constant flipping of the legs back and forth.

[video=youtube;U5wliityRuU]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5wliityRuU[/video]

For the fins you have now, just use a relaxed scissor kick. No need to go fast, especially in a drysuit. Take your time and enjoy your dive.

 

[ESharp]

Thanks for the advice so flutter kicking is most appropriate for my fins but I will give the frog kick a shot even if it is less efficient. One of the main reasons I liked the fins was that I didn't feel the same strain on my legs as I did with paddles. Reckon my posture sub surface could do with work after looking at the video. Wasn't really taught posture or kicks for that matter only fin privets so plenty to keep me busy.

 

[krawlings]

I do not have the Jets but I do have OMS Slipstreams . They a similar fin. I find tat they are not suited for speed. They are more for power. I get the best results when I kick glide kick glide cycles (with a full leg kick) a lot less effort And I all so us a modified flutter kick (I do a slight kicks w/ my knees bent between 90 and 45 degrees keeps fins away from bottom )(and if I am only needing to move small amounts or make small adjustment I will just kick with my ankles knees bent) I did find that with them being so stiff it took a few dive to get my leg and calf used to them. I would get cramps if I tried to power them to much.

 

[eponym]

Hi

Recently I bought a pair of Scubapro Twin Jet Max fins because I needed a fin with a generous foot pocket to fit my external rock boots. I have tried a friends pair in my everdry 4 drysuit and liked the feel of them but I am curious as to what the best way to kick them is. I am aware that frog kicking is sub optimal in this type of fin and they are better suited to flutter kicking but should this be a small flutter kick or a larger one considering they are quite stiff. Sorry if its not very clear what I am asking I am still quite new to diving.
Any help would be much appreciated apologies if I have posted this in the wrong place.

Good question, right forum.
When flutter kicking, less is more. Keep the motion small, knees almost locked, glutes tight, legs long.

Be the Barbie!
. . .

 

[ESharp]

Thanks that's a pretty good way of illustrating it.
So in theory could I flutter glide flutter or is that only scissor and frog kicking.
Don't think speed is really a concern end up stopping pretty frequently to terrify sea life just want a comfy fin that works well.
I was kinda worried when I got these since no one else seems to have them but from what I can tell Scubapro were trying to mirror the atomic splits.

 

[eponym]

So in theory could I flutter glide flutter or is that only scissor and frog kicking.

Glide when and as long as you can, or just keep the motion small and slow.

Spoiler

At the Jedi Master Diver level, you don't kick at all - the water molecules just move out of your way.

 

[ESharp]

Guess that's how force fins work

 

[Peter_C]

The humor in this thread is great. Dive like Barbie? LOL

FYI a scissors and flutter kick are the same thing, different name.

I agree with the small and slow. You are pushing a drysuit that will keep you warm. No need to hurry.

Where are you diving? Sounds like finding an experienced mentor would be a good thing. Also taking a class from an instructor that will guide you along for buoyancy, trim, kicks, etc. Video is the end all for training.

 

[ESharp]

Thanks for the heads up the guy in the vid is doing a modified version but same concept short quick movements eager to give this a shot hopefully diving this weekend. Can splits be used for helicopter turns they look fun.

Wonder how long Barbie would last in Scottish waters dressed like that?